May 2012 News

The spouses and relatives caring for those suffering from anxiety or depression may be putting their own health at risk, according to a new study by Wesley Mission.

Titled Keeping minds well: Caring till it hurts, the charity's latest report found that almost 90 per cent of people who have cared for someone with a mental health issue reported a harmful impact on their own physical and mental wellbeing, as well as employment and financial situation.

New research from a leading health body has indicated that morbidly obese women in Australia and New Zealand may be at greater risk of complications during pregnancy.

According to data from the Australasian Maternity Outcomes Surveillance System (AMOSS), women with a body mass index of greater than 50 are twice as likely to require a caesarean
delivery than other expectant mothers.

A new mother-baby service will be developed by Ballarat Health Services in regional Victoria as part of a $6 million package outlined in the state government's latest budget.

In an announcement by mental health minister Mary Wooldridge and premier Ted Baillieu last week (May 11), the five-bed Ballarat facility comes in addition to the government-funded places at the Monash Medical Centre, Austin Hospital and Werribee Mercy Hospital, and will provide an essential service to local residents.

The NSW government has announced the commencement of work at a new health facility in the coastal town of Woy Woy.

A 30-bed sub-acute geriatric rehabilitation unit will be added to Woy Woy Hospital, through a project worth $14 million.

According to state health minister Jillian Skinner, the project - which was made possible by a $9 million grant from the federal government - includes a courtyard area to be used for therapy treatments, a gymnasium and additional parking for visitors.

The New South Wales town of Raymond Terrace is set to receive a boost to its health facilities, with the Joint Regional Planning Panel approving a new medical centre yesterday (May 10).

The $10.6 million health clinic is due to open at the end of 2013, and will provide access to general practitioners and public dental services, as well as eight renal dialysis chairs and visiting pathology specialists.

State government member for Port Stephens Craig Baumann believes that the centre will help to meet the needs of local patients, both now and in the future.

One of Australia's leading diet experts believes that Mother's Day this year may provide the perfect opportunity for families to focus on their health and lifestyle.

Speaking to the Herald Sun today (May 10), dietitian Karen Inge urged mothers around the country to consider their weight and risk of disease in a bid to look after themselves and ensure that they live for as long as possible.

According to Ms Inge, obesity is one of the biggest health issues facing women at the moment.

Regional education provider Charles Sturt University is set to add a new family medical practice to its Bathurst campus, thanks to $6 million in funding announced as part of the 2012-13 Federal Budget.

The new facility will be built as part of the university's health and wellness precinct, alongside the existing community dental and oral health clinic and the yet-to-be-built $7 million Allied Health Clinic.